Transportation Commission Approves December Proposition 1 Projects

AUSTIN – The Texas Transportation Commission, at its December meeting, approved 34 roadway improvement projects using Proposition 1 funding. The projects, totaling more than $520 million worth of roadway construction, rehabilitation and restoration, will enhance the safety, mobility and connectivity in our state. Commissioners have now approved final contract awards on 165 of more than 200 planned Proposition 1 projects across the state.

“The Commission and TxDOT continue to deliver needed transportation projects that will greatly benefit Texas drivers and the state’s economy,” said TxDOT Executive Director LtGen Joe Weber, USMC (Ret). “The message from community leaders and local planning organizations, as well as the message sent by voters when they approved Proposition 1 last November, is that transportation concerns must be addressed in a manner that is both efficient and effective. Our efforts continue to prove we hear and understand that message.”

Proposition 1, which dedicates a portion of oil and gas tax revenue to the state highway fund, was approved last November by Texas voters. The 200 planned Proposition 1 projects will result in more than 800 miles of rehabilitated highways; nearly 500 miles of new highway lanes; 114 bridges replaced, widened or rehabilitated; and an additional 159 miles of passing lanes on rural highways. Metropolitan Planning Organizations and TxDOT districts worked together and with the public to formulate the list of projects.

Many TxDOT districts plan to use maintenance funds to repair or rehabilitate highways affected by production in energy sectors. These funds, along with Proposition 1 funds specifically allocated for energy sector needs, will allow projects in impacted areas to receive nearly 30 percent of total 2015 Proposition 1 funding.

In addition to addressing congestion, Proposition 1 funding also addresses safety. Over the past five years, there were 248 fatalities and more than 23,000 crashes on the highway segments where these Proposition 1 funded projects are located. The work planned in these areas is designed to enhance safety for drivers and reduce the number of crashes, fatalities and injuries.

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The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. Through collaboration and leadership, we deliver a safe, reliable, and integrated transportation system that enables the movement of people and goods. Find out more at TxDOT.gov. "Like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.